Help sought in finding hit-and-run driver

DURHAM — Loved ones of the Durham man who was killed Wednesday in a hit-and-run pleaded Friday for the driver to come forward.

"I would urge people, in honor of this very good person, be vigilant. Look for this vehicle," said Steve Centanni, a longtime friend of Rick Magee. "Come forward and contact California Highway Patrol."

Magee, 61, died about five hours after a driver rammed into him on the shoulder of the Midway at Roble Road, where he and his partner were bicycling Wednesday afternoon, Centanni said.

The partner watched Magee fly past him and slam into the pavement, said CHP officer Justin Maxey. Magee suffered severe head and internal injuries, for which medics ordered a trauma team activation at Enloe Medical Center.

The vehicle of interest is described as a pewter-colored 2003 to 2007 Chevy half-ton Silverado with an extended cab, Maxey said. It might have damage to the front passenger side.

"To leave someone by the roadside like that seems incomprehensible," Centanni said. "I hope the driver has a change of heart."

Maxey said the driver could face charges of vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run causing death.

Magee and his partner were out for a ride on the nice afternoon, Centanni said.

Maxey asked that people, including mechanics, who see a pickup as described call CHP at 879-1999.

Magee is survived by his partner, nieces and nephews, and many friends. He had a tremendous, positive energy, loved the outdoors and went bicycling regularly, Centanni said.

"He was the light of our lives," he said.

Centanni thinks it's disturbing that a driver could hit an innocent person and flee, he said.